What is a Fusion for Arthritis?
A fusion for arthritis, also known as arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure to fuse bones within a joint using screws or plates. A fusion surgery immobilizes the joint but reduces pain and inflammation due to arthritis and improves quality of life.
What are the Indications for a Fusion for Arthritis?
Fusion surgery may be indicated in the following arthritic conditions:
- Osteoarthritis which is characterized by wear and tear of the ends of bones forming the joint over the time
- Post-traumatic arthritis that occurs after a significant injury such as a fracture
- Rheumatoid arthritis which is an autoimmune disease that damages your joints
What are the advantages of a Fusion for Arthritis?
The advantages of Fusion surgery for arthritis include:
- It can relieve severe joint pain
- It helps in achieving stability in the joint
- It improves bone alignment
- It can improve weight bearing capacity on the fused joint
Preparation for Fusion Surgery for Arthritis
In preparation for the surgery you may be required to:
- Inform you doctor of all your medications and supplements as some of them may need to be stopped temporarily prior to surgery.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything from midnight on the day of your surgery.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
What Happens during the Fusion Surgery for Arthritis?
Joint fusion surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Your doctor will make an incision (cut) on your skin to gain access to the joint to scrape away the damaged cartilage from your joint and bring together the ends of the bones. This will allow your bones to fuse together as healing takes place.
Sometimes, your surgeon might place a small piece of bone to strengthen your joint, which may be taken from your pelvic bone, heel, just below your knee, prosthetic material or a donor bone from a bone bank. This will be fixed using metal plates, screws, or wires to close the space within your joint. The metal components are often permanent and will stay in even after your joint heals. Your surgeon will then close your incisions with sutures or staples.
How does Fusion Surgery for Arthritis Recovery take place?
Over time, the ends of your joint will unite and grow together naturally. Generally, it takes up to 12 weeks to recover from the surgery. The precautions you need to take following surgery may include:
- Wearing a cast or brace
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce pain and swelling
- Avoiding all weight bearing activities
- Use crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
What are the Complications involved in Fusion Surgery for Arthritis?
Some of the complications that occur following fusion surgery include:
- Infection
- Excess bleeding
- Painful scar
- Broken hardware
- Blood clots
- Nerve damage
- Inability of the joint
- Stiffness
